Common Understanding of Magic

Magic is not uncommon. In most villages there are a handful of individuals who can perform simple cantrips or minor spells. The Church of Omnos sees it as a tool, and thus does not condemn magic but may condemn how it is used. In spite of its acceptance and common presence, wizards and sorcerers of notable strength are few and far between – wizardry in particular being viewed as a lost art. In addition to the traditional magical practices, there are the Secrets – the ability to work magic through mundane tasks, if you know the trick.

In some areas magic use is regulated. Some countries boast schools and academies, others employ special police to monitor and respond to magic use of a certain power or type. It is not unknown however for a magical item to be for sale in a typical shop – and be known for what it is by the shopkeeper.

In short, at least in the cultures you are familiar with a barman using an unseen servant spell is unusual and worthy of mild note, but not a source of superstition or persecution. Anything more powerful than a first level non-offensive spell could be cause for alarm. A shepherd who uses a sleep spell to calm his flock will be gossiped about as being more magical than most. If the same shepherd throws a web spell on some wolves however, the gossip will take a more cautious tone and the local sheriff will probably stop by regularly “just to check in on things.”